The State Code of Virginia (9 VAC 25-780) requires local governments to prepare and submit a water supply plan to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) by the year 2011 (deadline determined by population/regional plan).  The first half of the Water Supply Plan regulation requires extensive data collection pertaining to existing water source (treatment capacity), existing water use (demand), and existing resource information (natural resources).  The second half of the regulation requires water demand projections 30 to 50 years into the future, a statement of community needs/alternatives, a conservation management statement, and a drought response plan. 

In an attempt to meet the regulations in the most efficient manner, the Planning District Commission coordinated a funding request to DEQ on behalf of thirteen New River Valley governments.  The Commission was successful in obtaining two cycles of funding from DEQ with support from USDA-Rural Development.  Considering the success in funding, the plan participants are only required to provide an in-kind match.  The New River Valley Water Supply Plan is scheduled for completion in the Fall of 2010, one year ahead of the 2011 regulation deadline for regional plans.